Chinchweed (Pectis papposa)

Family: Asteraceae or Compositae | Edibility: Edible (1/5)

Pectis papposa is a ANNUAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft). It is frost tender. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds, Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

flavouring in soups or can be mixed with water to make a mush or porridge. — The flowers are used as a condiment.; The seed can be parched, ground into a powder then used as a thickener and flavouring in soups or can be mixed with water to make a mush or porridge.; Leaves - raw or cooked.; The native American Indians would dip the leaves in salty water then eat them as a condiment with mush or cornmeal.

Habitat & North American Range

Sandy and clay flats from sea level to 1500 metres in deserts and creosote bush scrub in California. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)